Merrymentor, please contact Annie Anderson at 346-5220 ext ...€¦ · Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! 402-327-2500

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families Since June 2010!!-- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

June is Father's Day

What's Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6State-Wide page 6

Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7Fremont & Grand Island page 8

Gretna & Hastings page 9Lincoln pages 10 - 15

Norfolk pages 15 - 16North Platte page 16

Omaha pages 16 - 24Resources for Families pages x

Classifieds page 29

Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! 402-327-2500

8055 O Street, Suite S110Lincoln, NE 68510

www.heartlandspeech.com

Find us on FACEBOOK too!

Check out any event

changes, after publication additions & MORE

at our blog:

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blogspot.com

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please contact us at:

[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Special Needs Mom's

You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. We have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do!

We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry.

For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased.

Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes!

We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

-- April Vernon

Edition #67 December 2015 ONE Nebraska Edition

Merry Christmas from O’Hana Kids News And the Ackman Fami ly!

May you have a saf e, and wonderfu l Ho l iday, and a Joyous New Year!

The Ackman’s

AUTISM! It Is Treatable

________________________

Proven Effectiveness at the

Lovaas Institute Midwest

The Lovaas Institute Midwest is offering intensive early intervention services with behavior therapy for children with autism. The Lovaas Institute has been the leader in the field of intensive early intervention since the early 1970’s, and is world renowned for its groundbreaking outcome study in 1987. Since that time, Dr. Lovaas and his associates have helped start numerous behavior therapy programs around the world, under the auspices of the NIMH-sponsored replication project. As a result, we are excited by the recent outcomes that fellow replication sites have found as they completed studies in Wisconsin and California. In turn, the Lovaas Institute Midwest is known for its innovations that include the language matrix, dynamic programming, clinical social skill programming, and parent-training. Our aim is to further advance the effectiveness of early intervention through the best possible treatment for your child and research for all children.

Contact us to receive an extensive review paper of the research in Applied Behavior Analysis for Autism.

O’Hana Kids’ News is not responsible for

any events; including cancellations, or

changes after print. It is your

responsibility to check with each contact

to verify the information that we have

provided to you.

Page 5

IMPORTANT TIDBITS FOR FAMILIES*

ALLPlay Baseball for Kids with Special NeedsWe are looking for children with disabilities to play in our incredible ALLPLAY Miracle League Baseball League. Last year we have over 150 kids play baseball and we are looking for MORE!! See our ad to the left for more information, and check us out at www.ALLPLAY.org You can also call Bruce at 402-305-5020.

Parent 2 Parent Mentor's Wanted – Please ReadNationally over 80% of parents of children with disabilities who were mentored by an experienced

parent reported it to bet he most helpful source of information on coping with the challenges of

raising a child with special needs. Mentored parents report that the support of a fellow parent was so

unique and personalized that it could not have come from any other source!

As the mother or father of a child with developmental disabilities, you have unique parenting experiences. Through time, training, and trial and error, you have gained valuable skills. Use your knowledge to help another parent on the journey by becoming a mentor. Parent to Parent (P2P) programs link parents of children, adolescents and adults with developmental disabilities with experienced and informed veteran parents who understand the day-to-day experiences of raising a child with special needs. Parent to Parent Omaha is offered by Ollie Webb Center, Inc., a local nonprofit agency. We are seeking parent mentors who are coping well with their child’s situation and view him or her as a valuable and developing person. Consider becoming a mentor if you’d like to help parents cope with the joys and challenges of having a child (of any age) with special needs. The time commitment involves contacting another parent (in person, -mail or telephone) once every two weeks within the fist 8 weeks and as mutually agreed thereafter. You have the knowledge and experience. We provide training as a framework to share your wisdom. The next training will be held soon and will include: Guidelines for Helping Families; Creative Coping Skills and Resiliency; Survival Tactics for Parents of Children with Special Needs; What Helps Families in High Stress Situations and Crisis; Tips for Extended Family Members and Siblings; Tips for locating Community Services; Information on Parent to Parent USA; Cultural Competence and Family Centered Care; AND Principles of Family-Professional Collaboration. To talk with someone about becoming a mentor, please contact Annie Anderson at 346-5220 ext. 23 or [email protected] or mail your name, address, phone number and e-mail to: Ollie Webb Center, Inc | 1941 South 42nd Street | Suite 122 | Omaha, NE 68105 ?

O'Hana Kids News is giving away POGO cards!! MAY THEY ARE FREE!!!OKN has leftover POGO cards from our fundraiser. Lincoln expires i6/30/2012 and Omaha expires 8/31/2012. We would love to start selling the newest POGO cards but first want to get rid of the ones we have. Therefore from here on our until they are gone, first come first served they are FREE!! Just let me know via email at [email protected]. We have POGO cards for Lincoln and Omaha both. If you have never used a POGO card, you are missing out. In just as little as 1 use you can recoup the $5 you paid for the card, and still have a year to use the remainder of the card. My family uses a POGO card on a regular basis, but have never been able to use everything on the card, and it usually saves us several hundred dollars a year in what we can use. Here is a sample of what you get: McDonalds's; Burger King, Runza, Many other fast food places, coffee shops, Pizza Hut; Valentino's, Domino's Pizza & many other restaurants; Golf at many area courses; Big Red Store; Russwood Auto Center (Lincoln); Oil Changes; Russ' Supermarket ($5 off $50 purchase x 3, Lincoln), Saltdogs, & so many other places to save money with I can't even list them all! So how can YOU get YOUR POGO card???? Just shoot us an email or leave us a message (information on front page) and we will let you know that your POGO card is on its way!! Limit of 1 per city per email address!! Thank You!!!!*

Make sure to let people know how you found out about these events, activities & advertisers!!Tell ‘em, O’Hana Kids’ News pointed you their way!!!

Building Better Futures

The Alexis Verzal Children's Rehabilitation Hospital is dedicated to the unique needs of children.

Providing advanced technology and compassionate care for a variety of rehab needs, inpatient or

outpatient.

Learn more at www.Madonna.org

O. Ivar Lovaas, Ph.D.founded Lovaas Institute

The Lovaas Institute Midwest2925 Dean Parkway, Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN [email protected] – 612.925.8365

www.lovaas.com

Check out any event

changes, after publication additions & MORE

at our blog:

www.ohanakidsnews.

blogspot.com

For more information, or advertising rates

please contact us at:

[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


!

We!are!a!law!firm!founded!by!the!parent!of!children!with!special!needs,!to!serve!parents!&!caregivers.!!We!provide!affordable,!caring!legal!representation!for!caregivers!throughout!Nebraska.!!!Contact'us'today'for'a'FREE'initial'consultation'with'question'about:'

• Special(Education(• Guardianship(• Special(Needs(Trusts(• SSI(or(SSDI(• Elder(Law(• Medicaid/HHS(• Transition(to(Adult(

Services(Or(Any(other(legal(concern(

402D650D5993((

www.SeamusKellyLaw.com((

[email protected](

!

!

! Physical Therapy

! Occupational Therapy

! Speech Therapy

We are Located at: 4640 Bair Ave

Suite #107 In Superior Pointe Shopping Center

LINCOLN, NE 68504

Call 402-742-7400 To schedule an appointment

Thank You to all of our L & B

Families for their support of the many years of service in Lincoln!

Easter Seals Nebraska Weekend

Overnight Camp

December 18 – 20

Eastern Nebraska 4-‐H Center, GRETNA

Cost is $500, however, Respite Waiver Units, can be accepted as payment!

Campers will relax by taking nature walks, viewing wildlife, and enjoying holiday

themed activities.

For more information or to register, email Jami at [email protected] or call

402-‐930-‐4053

Remember the Reason for this CHRISTmas Season!

C l a s s i f i e d s B u y , S e l l , T r a d e , G i v e A w a y o r N e e d & J o b s

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

May is Better Speech & Hearing MonthMay 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day

What's Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6

State-Wide page 6Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7

Fremont & Grand Island page 8Gretna & Hastings page 9

Lincoln pages 10 - 15Norfolk pages 15 - 16

North Platte page 16Omaha pages 16 - 24

Resources for Families pages xClassifieds page 29

Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!!

Check out any event changes, after publication

additions & MOREat our blog:

www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com

For more information,

or advertising ratesplease contact us at:

[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April Vernon

!!

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!

Call 402-915-0846 Or go online at

www.pedschiroomaha.com

To schedule your COMPLIMENTARY 15-minute Consultation, to see how we can help you!

!

Founded in 2014 to give every kid

the chance to reach their God given potential.

We specialize in

children with developmental, behavioral, & neurological struggles.

!

DISCLOSURE: With ANY equipment specific to your child, O’Hana Kids News requests that you PLEASE have your PT/OT involved to ensure that it is a good fit for the child!

To join our mailing list or just to contact us, check out our website at www.ohanakidsnews.com or email us as [email protected]

Used AFO’s and braces of any kind

Does your child have outgrown shoes, afo’s, braces, etc and they are sitting just

taking up space, then please email heather at [email protected] ,

or you can take them to Madonna, in Lincoln, to the Hangar Orthotics office,

and Jamie is the person they go to. The used equipment will be collected and distributed overseas via a local orthopedic

specialist who travels and fits children with this special equipment that is not

available to them. 12/2015

IF you need an item, or are

looking to sell an items/items to someone who can use it, let me know! All information runs for

FREE!

Contact Heather at [email protected]

This Space Available!

FOR SALE: Adapted Toys! THINK CHRISTMAS or BIRTHDAY!! Aaron has toys available that he has already adapted and are ready to go!

Contact Aaron today at

[email protected] Or give him a call at

402-459-6894 for more information!

You can see more information about Aaron, and his business, look for the

Adapted Devices Ad on page 11 of this newsletter!

HELP WANTED:

Take A Break (TAB) is a respite and child abuse prevention program that meets the

first 2 Friday evenings of each month. TAB serves families in situations by providing relief from the ongoing

responsibilities of caring for loved ones with behavioral, medical or physical

challenges. The program meets at Grace Lutheran Church, 2225 Washington,

Lincoln, NE. To apply, please contact TAB Coordinator Mary Shada at 402-434-3494

or [email protected] 12/2015

RESPITE PROVIDERS NEEDED: Do you have the gift of service? Do you

want to help families in need? The Nebraska Respite Network is a statewide program funded through the Department of Health and Human Services. We are seeking Respite Providers who can help families take a break from caregiving.

There are volunteer and paid opportunities available. Free training can also be

provided. This is a STATEWIDE OPPORTUNITY!! For more information

contact Southeast Nebraska Coordinator Mary Shada at 402-434-3494 or [email protected] 12/2015

IF you need an item, or are looking to sell an items/items to someone who can use it, let me know! All information runs for

FREE!

Contact Heather at [email protected]

This Space Available!

INFANT STANDER NEEDED:

Looking for an infant stander, preferably with big wheels so the child can wheel

themselves around. Insurance not cooperating J Small or extra small size.

Thanks. 402-646-5357

FOR SALE:

6 cans of EleCare Infant formula, $175

contact us at [email protected] or 402-239-2522, can call or text 12/2015

NEEDED:

Looking for an adult scooter/wheelchair like the kind they have in Walmart (sort

of), if you have one or know of one PLEASE LET US KNOW!!

[email protected]

Heartland Equine Therapeu c Riding Academy HETRA is proud to offer equine assisted ac vi es to adults and children with disabili es in the Omaha surrounding community. Staff include cer fied

PATH, Intl. instructors, Occupa onal, Physical and Mental Health Therapists. Find out how to become a student at

www.HETRA.org.

www.HETRA.org l (402) 359-8830 l 10130 S. 222nd Street, Gretna, NE 68028

Premier Accredited Center by Professional Associa on of Therapeu c Horsemanship Interna onal, (PATH, Intl.)

Where things are Located in OKN!

Classifieds page 2 Church Information page 3 – 6

Special Needs Trust Article page 7 Statewide pages 8 – 14

Camp Information page 15 Respite Information page 15 - 16

Ted E. Bear Hollow page 17 NFAPA Support Groups page 18

Webinars page 19 Bellevue page 20

Church Information – LINCOLN





What's Where???













[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April Vernon

Sheridan Lutheran Church, ELCA

6955 Old Cheney Road, LINCOLN 402.423.4769

www.sheridanlutheran.org

Sunday Service 9:45 am Worship Service*

*Interpreted for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Candlewood Church, LINCOLN Grace Methodist Church Building

2640 R Street, LINCOLN Corner of 27th & R

www.candlewoodchurch.org

Every Sunday Service 9:30 am Fellowship & Coffee Served

10:00 am Worship Service

All of these churches are Handicapped Accessible & are would love to have your

family included in their services!

Spring of Life Deaf Church 3336 N. 14th St, LINCOLN

[email protected] Find us on Facebook too

Every Sunday 9:00 am Sunday Service 10:15 am Sunday School

Chadron, Council Bluffs & Elkhorn page 21 Grand Island page 22

Hastings & Kearney page 23 Lincoln pages 24 - 32

Nebraska City, & Norfolk page 33 Omaha pages 33 - 46

Papillion pages 47 - 48 Plattsmouth page 48

Sioux City & York page 49

Faith Bible Church

6201 S. 84th St, LINCOLN

402.484.6020

www.faithbiblelincoln.org

Sunday Services 9:00 am Worship Service

10:30 am Worship Service * *Interpreted for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing





What's Where???













[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April Vernon

Lincoln Berean 6400 South 70th Street, LINCOLN

402.483.6512 www.lincolnberean.org

Every Saturday Service 7:00 pm Worship Service

Every Sunday Service 9:00 am Worship Service*

*Interpreted for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing 10:45 am Worship Service

They also offer a one-‐on-‐one service for those families who

have children with special needs. You just need to call and talk with the church beforehand to ensure they have an appropriate person lined up to stay with your child at the service you would

like to attend. This is for Sunday AM Services only.

All of these churches are Handicapped Accessible

Church Information - Lincoln, Omaha, Neb. City

First Free Church

3300 S. 84th, St., LINCOLN

402-‐483-‐7635 www.firstfreelincoln.org

Sunday Services

9:15 am Worship Service 9:15 am Canopy Room

9:15 am Hand in Hand Sunday School 11:00 am Worship Service 11:00 am Canopy Room

First Free Church welcomes kids of any age with special needs. We provide Buddies for children who need more support in the Sunday School Classroom as well as Canopy Room for kids, PreK to 5th grade, who need less sensory stimulation.

We provide programming for children in both hours of our services. Hand in Hand is a Sunday School Class that meets for adults with intellectual

disabilities.

We also offer a free respite program for parents, called Masterpiece Respite R&R, that is offered bi-‐monthly.

Look under Lincoln Events for the next respite night. Upcoming is in January 2016!

QUESTIONS: Masterpiece Director, Danelle Mills at [email protected] or 402-‐261-‐8304

Church Information – Omaha, Nebraska City

What We Believe!

These churches all believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who was sent to humanity to be the sacrificial lamb for all our wrongdoings, allowing for us to spend eternity with Him in Heaven.

The only thing that we as sinful humans need to do in order to be saved and spend eternity in

Heaven, is Repent of our sins, Acknowledge that Jesus Christ is our only way to Heaven, and ask

for His forgiveness.

That’s all you need to do, and each of these churches can help you with any questions you

may have about Salvation & the Gift of it through





What's Where???













[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April Vernon

This edition is FREE!!! Pass it along!! Join our mailing list, contact us at www.ohanakidsnews.com TODAY!!

Candlewood Church, OMAHA

Westside High School 8701 Pacific Street, OMAHA

www.candlewoodchurch.org

Sunday Service 9:30 am Fellowship & Coffee 10:00 am Worship Service

Calvary Community Church 273 S 63rd Rd., NEBRASKA CITY

402.873.7205 www.calvarycomunityonline.com

Every Sunday 9:00 am Sunday School 10:30 am Church Service

Westside Church – Dodge Rd. Campus

15050 W Dodge Rd, OMAHA 402.496.7833 or [email protected]

www.wchurch.tv

Every Sunday 8:00 am Worship Service 9:30 am Worship Service **

**Interpreted for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing 11:11 am Worship Service

Westside Church – ELKHORN Campus

Sempeck’s Bowling & Entertainment, 20902 Cumberland Dr., ELKHORN

402.496.7833 or [email protected] or online at wchurch.tv

Every Sunday 9:30 am Worship Service

Countryside Community Church

8787 Pacific Street, OMAHA 402.391.0350

www.countrysideucc.org

Sunday Service 9:00 am Classical Service 11:00 am Jazz Service

King of Kings Church

11615 I St, OMAHA 402-‐333-‐6464

www.kingofkingsomaha.org

Sunday Service 8:00 am Traditional Worship Service

9:15 am Contemporary Worship Service & Bible Studies 11:00 am Contemporary Worship Service

Crossroads Bible Church 17304 Hwy 1 -‐ MANLEY

Pastor Gary Wissel 402.499.4307 www.crossroadsbible.net

Every Sunday 9:30 am Worship

10:45 am Sunday School

1st Sunday of Every Month, Join us for a PotLuck meal after Sunday School!!

We also offer a FREE clothing outlet the last Saturday of each month. Just go to the website for more information, or call our Pastor. We

collect, good, used clothes, and put it out for families to just come get. It is absolutely FREE!

Church Information – CASS COUNTY

Faith Missionary Church 306 S. East St., WEEPING WATER Pastor Adam DeMike 402.267.7375 www.faithmissionarychurch.org

Sunday Service 9:30 am Sunday School

10:45 am Worship Service

What We Believe!

These churches all believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who was sent to humanity to be the sacrificial lamb for all our wrongdoings, allowing for us to

spend eternity with Him in Heaven.

The only thing that we as sinful humans need to do in order to be saved and spend eternity in

Heaven, is Repent of our sins, Acknowledge that Jesus Christ is our only way to Heaven, and ask

for His forgiveness.

That’s all you need to do, and each of these churches can help you with any questions you

may have about Salvation & the Gift of it through Jesus Christ our Lord.





What's Where???













[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April VernonChurch Information – Western Nebraska

This edition is FREE!!! Pass it along!! Join our mailing list, contact us at www.ohanakidsnews.com TODAY!!

Evangelical Free – Grand Island

2609 S. Blaine, Grand Island (308)382-‐1292 or [email protected]

www.gief.org

Every Sunday 8:15 am Worship Service 11:00 am Worship Service

Westside Church – Fremont

Midland University, Eppley Auditorium, 8th St. & Irving Ave, FREMONT

402.496.7833 or [email protected] www.wchurch.tv

Every Sunday 10:10 am Worship Service

Evangelical Free – Kearney 4010 7th Avenue, Kearney

(308)237-‐5968 or [email protected] www.kearneyfree.com


Peace Lutheran, Columbus 2720 28th Street, Columbus

402.564.8311 or [email protected] www.aliveinpeace.org


Saturdays 6:00 pm Worship Service





What's Where???













[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April Vernon

SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST INFORMATION

ents to consider. This option includes channeling an inheritance into a Trust created for their special needs child. The Trust would be managed and ex-pended in a way that supplements their child’s needs and wants while allowing him or her to be eligible for means-tested benefits. Additionally, the assets would be managed, protected, and expended by a respon-sible party who serves as the Trustee of the Trust. This party would be required to administer the Trust solely for the child’s benefit. If the child dies before all assets are used, the remaining assets could sim-ply be distributed to the parents’ surviving children.

Be sure to visit with an attorney who is fa-miliar with special needs estate planning if you are in the process of planning for the fu-ture of your special needs child after your death.

Estate planning for parents who have a child with special needs involves unique issues. During their lifetimes, parents are able to remain involved in their child’s care and are able to supplement pub-lic resources available to their child. Providing for the financial well-being of a special needs child af-ter his or her parents have died may be less certain.

Aside from the generosity of friends and family mem-bers, government programs often play the most sig-nificant role in providing financial support for special needs individuals. These programs, which include Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security Disability In-surance, Supplemental Security Income, and Vet-eran’s Benefits, can provide assistance for basic liv-ing and limited health care coverage. Some of these programs are “means-tested”, meaning eligibility for benefits is based in part on the value of assets owned by the applicant. Some of these programs are not means-tested, meaning the applicant can be eligible for benefits regardless of the assets he or she owns.

In general, individuals who rely on means-tested programs, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Secu-rity Income, cannot own more than several thousand dollars of “countable” assets (i.e. cash in bank ac-counts). Countable assets exceeding this limit must be spent down before eligibility can occur. Note that there are certain types of assets, such as a vehicle, that a special needs individual can own without af-fecting his or her eligibility for means-tested benefits.

The general limit explained above leaves some parents questioning whether they should leave assets to their special needs child when they die. As a result, parents usually consider (1) completely disinheriting their spe-cial needs child, (2) leaving their assets to their special needs child and excluding their other children from inheritance, or (3) leaving assets to another family member in hopes that this person will use the assets for the well-being of their special needs child. Each of these options may be unfavorable for different reasons.

Fortunately, there is a more helpful option for par-

1125 South 103rd Street, Suite 800 Omaha, NE 68124 402.390.9500 koleyjessen.com

Estate Planning Wills, Trusts & Powers of Attorney Probate Estate/Trust Administration

Estate Tax Planning Special Needs Trusts Guardianship & Conservatorships

Business Succession PlanningMedicaid Planning Wrongful Death

Please contact me if you have a question you would like me toaddress in an upcoming article.

James A. [email protected]

PLANNING FOR YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDSby James Tews

Page 8

v Sure Steps SMO Orthotics Sure Steps makes tennis shoes that are made to fit SMO’s. Contact them at www.suresteps.net for more information.

v Advocacy Page for Parent’s of Children with Disabilities Now parents are invited to check out a page on Mosaic’s website www.mosaicinfo.org/services/research/CollaborativeCorner.html make sure you check out this new resource available to all our families

v Apps for kids on the Autism Spectrum http://www.educatorstechnology.com/2013/07/a-‐wonderful-‐wheel-‐featuring-‐ipad-‐apps.html

v Community Support List http://65.166.193.134/IFTWSQL4/uwml/public.aspx this is a VERY old list of community supports through Nebraska 2-1-1. It has everything you may want for support. You do need to contact them to find out if those contacts are still a provider for community help.

v Website Listing Accessible Playgrounds This is something all us families who have children, in a wheelchair, with braces, with a walker, you name it, we need this to make our lives easier. Well here it is THANK YOU to a mom out there for sharing! http://apps.npr.org/playgrounds/ Oh and the best part? This is nationwide, not a Nebraska thing, so wherever you are, you can look it up!

v The F.I.L.M. Project: Family Images for Lasting Memories Family Images for Lasting Memories is comprised of professional photographers worldwide who gift portraits of families facing a life limiting illness. Families can request their FREE professional portrait session by visiting the website and selecting the “Request a Session” tab. Let us give you the gift of family images for your memories. The F.I.L.M. Project believes that in sharing our gifts we can inspire healing, faith, and hope to families during their most fragile times through providing professional family portraits to those who may have a limited time left with their loved ones due to cancer or another life limiting illness. Go to www.TheFILMProject.net or call us at 1-800-643-0353

v Webinar Training through Omni Behavior Heath Training with Dr. Pomeranz, heard good things about it. www.omnibehavioralhealth.com/training

v Wheels for the World (A project of the organization Joni & Friends) Do you have a used wheelchair, folding walker or crutches that you want to get out of your closet? How about just wheelchair parts, or cushions? Call us because we can find a good home for them, for persons with disabilities in other countries! Wheel for the World collects used manual wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and wheelchair parts. After being collected, the items go to a prison, where they are refurbished and fixed. The wheelchairs, walkers & crutches are then delivered to children and adults in developing countries around the world. For more information, or to donate, contact Michelle Wiggins at 402-420-0587 or email at [email protected] v Specialized Training Of Military Parents (S.T.O.M.P.): Survey for Military Families regarding disabilities TO PARTICIPATE: Go http://surveymonkey.com/s/stompmedicaid DECRIPTION: S.T.O.M.P. is involved in a very important survey. We need your help to disseminate it. What is the survey, and why is it important? Military families face many challenges as part of their desire to assist others and defend our freedoms. It is complicated further when there is a family member with more significant needs. Needs that can’t always be met by the military. One such challenge is accessing Medicaid. Since there are many ways Medicaid can support an individual with disabilities it is one resource military families try hard to access. However, because of wait lists and other complications, these families can face barriers to access. STOMP has been asked to help identify some of the potential barriers as well as some possible solutions to this challenge. The Monkey Survey Link here will provide us with information to help in this process. We recognize it will take Legislative change both at the local and National level and this survey will help mold the language that will be put forth on this issue. We are not in this alone. We have the support of many from the Department of Defense and Military Caucus who are willing to move this forward. However, the voice of Families is essential and you have the ability to assure it is heard. Please disseminate this survey to all military families you know. They can either be active duty or retired. Share the link and ask them to do so as well. Take the survey yourself and know that your voice is part of this great effort. Find us on FACEBOOK at STOMP – Specialized Training of Military Parents (11/2014 valid)

v Golden Halo Foundation The Golden Halo Foundation provides financial assistance, in way of grants, to help those children, and their families, with long-term disabilities. The financial assistance is to help seek medical treatment, diagnostic evaluations, durable medical equipment and expenses related to securing medical care. The Foundation currently serves families in Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, and Wyoming. The Golden Halo Foundation also educates these communities about the effects these diseases have on the patient and their families, as well as the 7advances in research in the area of long-term disabilities. Check out our website for more information at http://goldenhalo.wix.com/foundation





What's Where???













[email protected]

FACEBOOK too!!


Special Needs Mom's






-- April Vernon

Statewide Information

!

Challenger)Little)League)is)an)

opportunity)for)children)who)have)

special)needs)to)play)baseball)and)

make)life)long)friendships.))

We)begin)at)age)5)with)our)minors)

division,)&)end)with)our)alumni)

division,)which)has)no)age)limit.))

The)2016)season)will)begin)in)April.))

Do)you)have)a)friend)who)you)think)

would)like)to)play)baseball?))Tell)

them)about)Challenger)&)ask)them)to)

write)your)name)down)on)the)

registration)on)the)“referred)by”)line.))

You)will)receive)50%)off)your)

registration!))

Registration)for)our)2016)season)

begins)on)January)7,)&)ends)February)

28,)2016.)))

Please)check)out)our)website)

www.challengerlittleleague.org))

)

And/or)please)feel)free)to)call)Kelly)at)

402U968U3608)

For)more)information))

We)are)located)in)Omaha,)Nebraska)

Challenger

Little League





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The Nebraska Respite Network

Do you know about the Lifespan Respite Subsidy Program? This program pays for respite services (someone to come into the home to care for a person with special needs, to give the primary caregiver a temporary break). The program serves people of all ages. It is for people who are NOT receiving the services from another government program.

Who Needs This Program? Caregivers who need a temporary break from providing care to persons of any age, with special needs. Examples of special needs are developmental & physical limitations, emotional or behavioral disorders, chronic illness. Alzheimer’s disease & related health concerns, or persons at risk of abuse & neglect. Eligibility is based on income guidelines. HOWEVER, if you have expenses directly related to the disability, these can usually be subtracted

from the counted income. The person applying must have a caregiver. The program will provide up to $125 per client per month!!

How do I become a Respite Provider? How do I get qualified for the Lifespan Respite Subsidy Program?

What if I need help finding a respite provider, so I as a Caregiver, can have a break? Contact the Nebraska Respite Network by contacting a Respite Network Coordinator in your area (see below) or call 1-‐866-‐RESPITE

Eastern Service Area Serving Douglas & Sarpy

Coordinator Ellen Bennett (402)996-‐8444

[email protected]

Southeast Service Area Serving Thayer, Jefferson, Gage, Otoe, Cass, Pawnee, Richardson, Johnson, Nemaha,

Lancaster, Saline, Fillmore, York, Seward, Polk, Butler & Saunders

Coordinator Mary Shada (402)434-‐3494 ext. 103 [email protected]

Central Service Area Serving Harlan, Franklin, Webster, Clay, Nuckolls, Phelps, Kearney, Adams, Buffalo, Hall, Hamilton, Merrick, Howard, Sherman, Custer, Valley, Greeley, Blaine, Loup, Garfield,

Wheeler Northern Service Area

Serving Washington, Dodge, Colfax, Platte, Nance, Boone, Antelope, Holt, Rock, Brown, Cherry, Keya Paha, Boyd, Knox, Cedar, Burt, Dixon, Dakota, Thurston, Cuming, Stanton,

Madison, Pierce & Wayne

Coordinator Lydia Hovi, For BOTH Service Areas (308)745-‐0780 ext. 145 [email protected]

Southwest Service Area Serving Dundy, Hitchcock, Red Willow, Furnas, Gosper, Dawson, Lincoln, Logan, Thomas,

Grant, Hooker, Arthur, Keith, Perkins, Chase, Hayes, & Frontier

Coordinator Helena Janousek (308)345-‐4223 (308)345-‐4990

[email protected]

Western Service Area Serving Sheridan, Garden, Deuel, Sioux, Cheyenne, Morrill, Box Butte, Dawes,

Scottsbluff, Banner & Kimball

Coordinator Sherri Blome (308)432-‐8190

[email protected]


v Telehealth for Pediatric Epilepsy Clinic MORE INFORMATION: 308-865-7742 for information & appointments DECRIPTION: Tele-health offers a chance to participate in an exciting and growing part of this nation’s health care. It reduces travel hours and away time from work; and brings individuals together in order to provide healthcare services and educational opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible. Through technology, individuals are able to see and talk to one another from sites across Nebraska. Currently, all pediatric Neurologists and Epileptologists in Nebraska are located in the urban areas at the far eastern edge of the state. Through telemedicine connections, patients can go to their nearest Tele-health site and be linked directly with a board certified pediatric neurologist in Omaha. Travel time is greatly reduced and access is easier for both the patients and the healthcare provider.

v Study Participants NEEDED: Recruiting teachers & related service professionals MORE INFORMATION: Richard Simpson at 785-864-0507 or [email protected] or Stephen Crutchfield at [email protected] DECRIPTION: Teachers and related service professionals needed to participate in a study on intervention methods and teaching strategies used with students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Interested participants should contacts us. We will contact respondents to give details about the study and to make sure they qualify to participate. The questionnaire will ask about use of various interventions designed for use with children with ASD. It will take about 10 – 15 minutes to complete the questionnaire. Participants names, names of school districts, or other specific identifying information will not be disclosed in any way through this study (we are only interested in group data). Study Participants MUST: Hold state approved provisional or full licensure or endorsement in special education or a related service area such as occupational therapy; Have a minimum of one year teaching experience with at least one student with ASD; Have current contact with at least one elementary age student with ASD

v Heart Heroes Capes for kids with CHD, a Nebraska Non-Profit Every year, approximately 40,000 infants are born in the US with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD). CHD is the most frequently occurring birth defect & the leading cause of birth-related deaths. More than 50% of children with CHD will require at least 1 invasive surgery in their lifetime. In the US, twice as many children die from CHD each year, than all forms of childhood cancers, combined! Needless to say, the survivors of CHD wear their scars, like badges of honor. They are our “Heart Heroes”. Heart Heroes, Inc., is a non-profit organization that originated by a few Nebraska moms, who had children with CHD. After trying to coax their children through cardiology appointments & heart surgeries, they took comfort in the wondrous powers of “super hero” capes to comfort their children, & Heart Heroes was founded! Now hundreds of Heart Hero capes have been draped around the little shoulders of CHD children everywhere. Consider donating a Heart Hero Cape to a child with CHD by going to www.heartherocapes.com to donate a cape. There is a perpetual wait list of children who need their capes to conquer their fears & give them courage. You can also join our Heart Heroes Facebook Group to see pictures of many of the cape recipients & hear their stories. Contact the Co-Founders of Heart Heroes at [email protected]. “Children hold our hands for a moment, but our hearts forever.” ~Anonymous

Page 10

v Wonderful Encouraging Blog for Parents who have kids with Special Needs Notaloneparents.wordpress.com

v Hearing Care Helpers www.Accessibility.net purchased the rights to use Hearing Care Helpers as the name of its new division and I wanted to introduce you to its new website. The web site is fully dedicated to AfterShokz right now but have secured distributorships for the leading products to offer powerful amplified telephones, Bluetooth headsets, amplified neckloops, mobile accessories and listening systems for people with hearing loss and those looking for a remarkable listening experience. We are here to help the blind and visually impaired and deaf and hard of hearing communities www.HearingCareHelpers.com

v Introducing Nebraska- LowVision.com http://www.nebraska-lowvision.com

v Learn to Adapt Toys to Use with a Switch/Button/BigMac This workshop is for anyone! You will learn how to easily &cost effectively turn the toys that your child already has, & isn’t using due to physical limitations, into toys that are adapted to your child! You will learn how to install a jack into a single function toy & convert into a toy that is operated with a switch. You will learn how to assemble a switch. You will make a detachable cord that runs from the toy to the switch, and best of all your child’s toy will look professionally adapted, by YOU!! You have seen that the switch operated toys are sometimes as much as 8x as much to order, than if you could buy the toy & parts & put together yourself. This class is FREE, however donations of any kind are appreciated. Contact Aaron today at [email protected] for more information!!

v “Our Story” The Beginning of A Special Sitter As parents of four children, two with special needs, we understand your challenges in raising special needs children. As parents, our God given responsibility is to train our children for life. As a parent, you experience highs & lows as your children grown through the seasons of life. We learned early, that these highs & lows are amplified when you are caring for a child with special needs. You want to attend your children’s sporting events, teacher conferences, & musical performances. You want to continue to date your spouse, because a strong marriage creates a strong family. Like us, you probably have asked yourselves, “How do we create & maintain this balance when most of our time & energy is devoted to caring for our child with special needs?” Our desire is to help you answer that question so your family can experience the fullness of blessings available to your family because of your child with special needs. A Special Sitter was inspired by our ongoing journey of parenting our family & we believe our experiences can help you experience the fullness of blessings we have received as we raise our family. – Kimberly & Richard Troia, Co-Founders of A Special Sitter. Call 402-697-8400 x201 or [email protected]

v Parent Group – Kids with combined hearing & vision loss The Nebraska Technical Assistance Project on Deaf-Blindness has conducted training this year specific to parents of children who have a combined hearing & vision loss. The training has been in partnership with the National Consortium on Deaf-Blindness (NCDV2.0). A total of 6 parents have participated in a series of training activities from May 2011 through October 2011. They are now working on their leadership goals. They are called the Nebraska DB Parent Leadership Team, & have provided lots of support to the state Deaf-Blind project. It is the intent of this team to provide one-on-one interaction either via phones, technology or face-to-face with other parents in the state who have a child birth to age 21, with a combined hearing & vision loss. If you want to be connected to one of the parents, please contact Teresa Coonts at 402-595-1810 or [email protected] This is an exciting group of parents working & learning together for the purpose of supporting other families in the future.

v ABC Signing Kids Teaching Beginning Sign Language to Kids of All Abilit ies in South East Nebraska. Why Learn Sign Language? In addition to the fun you will have discovering a new and enriching language together, there are many benefits of signing with your child. Enhances Communication Skills in Babies and Toddlers. Even young children can learn basic ASL vocabulary quickly & easily with Signing Time Academy Classes & products. “Terrible Two’s” aren’t so terrible when your toddler can communicate what he wants. Improves Reading Skills. Studies indicate that children who sign have an increased interest in reading & may even read early. Benefits Children with Special Needs. Many children with special needs have difficulty with communication & speech. Sign Language encourages connection, reinforces positive self-image & fosters inclusion & acceptance. Sign Language is an effective tool for all types of learning styles: auditory, visual & kinesthetic/Tactile. For more information Call Angie Willey, Certified Instructor at 402-499-4022 or [email protected] You can also go to www.abcsigningkids.weebly.com

v Special Needs toys at Toys R US Toys R Us is partnered with Special Olympics USA, and have been for many years. You can go to the website www.toysrus.com, scroll down to the bottom of the screen and click on the Special Olympics logo. After you have clicked on it, you will need to click on the button on the red banner that says “Supporting the Special Needs Community”, it is located all the way to the right. On this page they are talking about the history Toys R Us has with the special needs community. The middle paragraph talks about a Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, click on the “here” to see that guide. It is the only way I was able to see it!





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Statewide Information !

!

!

!

!

600 N. 93 rd Street, Suite 100

Omaha, NE 68114

402-391-2001

www.stonesworthstepping .com

OT/PT/ST

Special ized therapies include :

Sensory Integration

Therapeutic Listening Programs

Craniosacral Therapy

Orthotics & Bracing

Baby signs

Social Groups

Feeding Therapy

Page 11

v Parent 2 Parent Mentor’s Wanted!!! Nationally over 80% of parents of children with disabilities, who were mentored by an experienced parent, reported it to be the most helpful source of information o coping with the challenges of raising a child with special needs. Mentored parents report that the support of a fellow parent was so unique & personalized that it could not have come from any other source! As the mother or father of a child with developmental disabilities, you have unique parenting experiences. Through time, training, & trial & error, you have gained valuable skills. Use your knowledge to help another parent on the journey by becoming a mentor. Parent to Parent (P2P) programs link parents of children, adolescents & adults with developmental disabilities together with experienced & informed veteran parents who understand the day-to-day experiences of raising a child with special needs. Parent to Parent Omaha is offered by Ollie Webb Center, Inc., a local non-profit agency. We are seeking parent mentors who are coping well with their child’s situation & view him or her as a valuable & developing person. Consider becoming a mentor if you’d like to help parents cope with the joys & challenges of having a child (of any age) with special needs. The time commitment involves contacting another parent (in person, by mail, e-mail or telephone) once every 2 weeks within the first 8 weeks, & as mutually agreed thereafter. You have the knowledge & experience. We provide the training as a framework to share your wisdom. The next training will be held soon & will include: Guidelines for Helping Families; Creative Coping Skills & Resiliency; Survival Tactics for Parents of Children with Special Needs; What Helps Families in High Stress Situations & Crisis; Tips for Extended Family & Siblings; Tips for Locating Community Services; Information on Parent to Parent USA; Cultural Competence & Family Centered Care; & Principles of Family-Professional Collaboration. (12/2012) To talk to someone about becoming a mentor, please contact Annie Anderson at 402-346-5220, ext 23 or [email protected] or you can mail your name, address, phone number & e-mail to: Ollie Webb Center, Inc., 1941 South 42nd Street, Suite 122, Omaha, NE 68105

v HIPP Program through the State of Nebraska Do you know that you can then add your child, to your private health insurance (non-medicaid), and then you can get those premiums paid for through the HIPP program? As long as your child is on Medicaid, and if the child is on your family health insurance policy, they will cover the entire premium for your family!!! If your child isn’t on this, I would contact your DHHS coordinator to find out if this is an option for your child. I know that if your child is fed via g-button, j-button more than I think 50% of their daily intake, or have a catheter, these are both automatic qualifiers for kids. If you want more information I would contact your Services Coordinator, if you need help getting answers let me know and we can work through it together! Let’s get the word out about this program!! Contact me at [email protected] for more information.

v Respite Care Available for Air Force Families * FREE to them * U.S. Air Force (USAF) Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) families stationed throughout the country have children who require unique child care considerations due to the child’s special needs. Finding & paying for quality child care for children with special needs can also present significant challenges for military families. The U.S. Air Force EFMP program has established a quality respite program for families with children having special needs & who are enrolled in the USAF EFMP. USAF EFMP Respite Care is specifically designed for Air Force families who have children diagnosed with moderate or severe special needs under EFMP. This includes exceptional family member children whose medical conditions require assignment near major medical facilities in the continental United States, or whose needs are complex and require specialized community of care. What is included in the USAF EFMP Respite Care? Respite care hours vary between 8 – 20 hours per month based on the Airman’s status and EFM’s condition (moderate or severe). Your choice of an approved in-child’s home or licensed Family Child Care or Child Care Center. (Approved providers are background screened and have the following pre-service training: CPR, First Aid, Medication Dispensation, & Child Abuse Recognition & Prevention as well as subject matter training in the care of children with special needs. To begin the application process, call Child Care Aware toll-free at 1-800-424-2246 or email [email protected] for a Respite Care Step by Step instruction form. Or call the EFMP Office at 402-294-4329 for more info!

v Tech Tots & Tech Tools Programs Sponsored by UCP The Tech Tots Lending Libraries provide developmental toys, adapted toys and devices to children with developmental and physical disabilities, at no cost to families. UCP of Nebraska offers over 700 adapted toys & technologies for children and teens through 4 locations (listed below). The toys are housed in libraries located in respite or rehab services environments. Primary use of the program is through families that use services at the center, and is also available to the general public. The toys are available to be taken home to reinforce learning. We have heard from families that have participated in this program consistently and the value it has brought to them. After one family in particular, has been using the program by taking 3-4 items home for their child with Cerebral Palsy. After a month of using these items, they return the items and “refresh” them with something new and interesting. It has helped increase the exposure and learning for that child by continually offering new tools. These same adapted toys are cost-prohibitive to many families, as they typically cost more than 5 times the base cost of the toy without adaptation. UCP has partnered with AT4ALL to make the entire inventory visible online. AT4ALL is offered by the Assistive Technology Partnership. A family can view the items, request them for loan, and then simply pick them up at the location. Simply go to www.AT4ALL.com, click on “Children’s Equipment” in the category. All items available for checkout from UCP of Nebraska Tech Tots Partners (& a few other agency programs) will come up. You can refine the search by location by selecting one of the UCP of Nebraska sites. Under Programs, scroll down to find the UCP Tech Tools locations. Children’s adapted items available through other agencies can also be found on this website! Locations for Tech Tots and Tech Tools: (All these are listed in Resources on our website) Children’s Respite Care Center NW, 2010 N. 88th Street, OMAHA 402-496-1000 ask for Sarah Tselentis

Children’s Respite Care Center SW, 13336 Industrial Rd, Ste 101, OMAHA 402-895-4000 ask for Sarah Tselentis

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, 5401 S. Street, LINCOLN 402-486-8617 ask for Michelle Wiggins

Children’s Rehab Center, 3004 W. Faidley Avenue, GRAND ISLAND 308-398-5170 ask for Carole Ostdiek

Faith Regional Health Services Rehab Services, 1500 Koenigstein, NORFOLK 402-644-7348 ext. 7396 Ask for Nikki Fischer





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A comprehensive pediatric therapy gym with private treatment rooms &

a customized climbing structure.

• Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech & Language Therapy • Feeding/Swallowing Therapy • AAC Evaluations

5321 South 138th Street, Omaha, NE 68137

NOW OPEN SATURDAYS! For more information or to request

an evaluation please,

Call 402.895.4000. !

!!





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v Radio Show by Adult with Asperger Syndrome “Parents Corner” is a radio show, co-hosted by Brian King, LCSW. Brian is an adult with Asperger Syndrome, who also has 3 boys on the ASD spectrum. Brian will be sharing his parenting strategies and discussing them with a panel of parents. Here is a link with all the details you’ll need to tune in & call in if you’d like. http: tinyurl.com/3gm58h7 His address is: PO Box 994, Chicago, IL 60186 if you’d like to write to him.

v Webinars about Apps Are you interested in more information about Apps? Autism Speaks holds weekly webinars covering the technology of apps and how they can work for children with Autism. You say, but my child doesn’t have Autism! Log on anyway! Though the focus may be for children with Autism, much of what is offered can easily be adapted for children with similar or different needs. Discoveries for one area do increase the knowledge for all. http://autismspeaks.org/family-services/technology#webinars

v Handmade Gowns, IV Covers, G-button covers & more!!! Check this out!! If you have a child who is routinely in the hospital for various things (like mine is J) then you need to check this lady out!! Go to www.tubiewhoobies.com or you can visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tubiewhoobies

v Gluten Free/Casein Free Diet Website Just received this information that a parent went through and put their information into a website of all the diet information they have for gluten free/casein free. I haven’t checked it out, but take a look. It is http://www.lincolntent.com/GFCF.html

v Financial Resource for Families – FirstHand Foundation This is a resource for families with uncovered medical needs for their children. Families can apply for individual financial assistance if they meet the Foundation’s eligibility criteria. Check it out at www.firsthandfoundation.org

v “Love That Goes the Distance” Providing for special needs now & into the future!

Planning for the long-term care of a loved one with special needs requires thought and preparation. The fact is, when it comes to the future needs of a family member with a disability, the possibility that they nay outlive you is something that must be considered, especially when the individual is a minor or adult child. Preparations include estimating possible future care-giving costs, as well as making sure all assets are managed properly to best benefit your loved one. Special protection when you need it most! Sometimes families neglect inheritance issues for special needs family members because they assume siblings or related caregivers will simply step in and take over the care giving duties should the need arise. Even if families have reached an agreement on care giving responsibilities, it is still important to address the management and division of assets and to have your preferences clearly and legally defined. You also want to be sure you understand all of the legal guidelines so that your loved one with special needs does not lose benefits from government sources. For instance, many people are not aware of that with Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a single, disabled person cannot own more than $2,000 in assets. One component you might want to consider when setting up your long-term financial plan is the establishment of a “Special Needs Trust” funded with a form of life insurance. A “Special Needs Trust” is established to ensure that the disabled individual’s inheritance will supplement, not replace, any government assistance programs they may be eligible for. Aspects of a “Special Needs Trust” include: Appointing someone to take care of your loved one’s property and money, Designating a guardian for children less than 18 years of age, Integrating the wishes spelled out in the trust with the remainder of the parent’s estate plan. Get the help you need now for future peace of mind. A “Special Needs Trust” is just one tool that can help you address financial issues making life much easier for your loved one and their future caregivers. With proper planning, your love, and your money, will be set to go the distance. For additional information on “Special Needs Trusts” it is important to consult with an attorney in your state of residence who specializes in special needs estate planning. For more information on preparing for your loved one with special needs’ future, you can contact Cecilia Losee, Prudential at (402)861-3676.

v Boys Town National Research Hospital Research Study for kids with ADHD Boys Town National Research Hospital is seeking children and adolescents with ADHD to participate in research studies. Your child may quality for participation if: He or she is medically healthy; Age 10 – 18; Has ADHD (attention impulsivity and/or hyperactivity). Participation may include behavioral observation, brain imaging, and psychological interviews. These outpatient studies take place at Boys Town National Research Hospital, 139th & Pacific Streets, on Boys Town campus, in Omaha. What is involved in the study? We may invite your child to participate in simple computer games that measure his or her behavior. We may also invite your child to have an MRI brain scan during which we will measure brain activity while he or she plays simple computer games. Will your son or daughter benefit? Other than compensation for his or her time, your child will not receive any direct benefits from participation. Your child will not receive any medicine or therapy. However, he or she will receive a formal mental health screening by a Boys Town psychologist. You will be informed of any diagnoses that result. We can also refer your child to a local psychiatrist or psychologist if you do not already have one. If your child receives an MRS brain scan, a doctor will review the scan and you will be informed if anything serious is found. Are there risks involved? This study is low-risk. This means that the risks are thought to be no greater than risks from other everyday activities like going to school or to the doctor’s office. The MRI bran scan uses magnets, not x-rays or radiation. How much time to these studies take? Your child may be invited to come to the Boys Town National Research Hospital two or three times to complete the study, and a parent or legal guardian will need to come with him or her each time. Visits vary in length, but are usually two to three hours long. We will try to schedule the visits at the times that are most convenient for you. Each visit is voluntary. You are free to stop participating in the study at any time you wish. Your child will never do anything he or she doesn’t want to do. Please call 402-498-1220 for more information about participating in this study or visit our webpage at www.boystownhospital.org/research


!

To join our mailing list or just to contact us, check out our website at www.ohanakidsnews.com or email us as [email protected]





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Page 13

v Camp Quality USA Camp Quality USA, Inc., provides year-round support programs for children with cancer and their families. Programs include our signature week-long camp and other year-round programs such as reunions and ski camps. Each camp is volunteer run and community funded. Camp Quality gives families a much needed rest, knowing that the highest quality program has been selected for their child – a companion will be assigned to ensure the child’s safety and the finest medical supervisors are provided at each camp to administer medications and on-site care. Campers at Camp Quality range from 4 years of age through 17 and vary in stages of their treatment or remission. They are children who smile, laugh, play and have dreams for a bright future. The Companions are the lifeblood of the camp. They are the around-the-clock caretaker for the campers and ensure the most enjoyable, safe, relaxing, and restoring experience possible for each child. Each companion, at least 18 years of age, is interviewed, background checked, and trained BEFORE camp!! Camp Quality provides all the year-round programs at NO COST to families. The camp is run 100% on donations, supplies and volunteer hours. Would you like to volunteer? Or know more about Camp Quality or even Register for an upcoming Camp? Contact Caleb Rogers at 712-310-8177 or via email [email protected]

v Exceptional Advocate Newsletter Mainly for Military families, there is information in this resource for families who have kids with special needs. Check it out. There are tips on preparing for the new school year, information on immunization requirements for military family members, and resources for ensuring emergency preparedness for your whole family, including a Special Needs Parent Tool Kit and more (see page 4). Read it at http://apps.militaryonesource.mil/efmp/book/2013/August/

v True Buddy Farms – Home of Luv A Lamb We provide day camps, individual therapy sessions, & veterinary clinics at the farm. We were established in 2009. Our mission is to encourage & teach life skills to youth & adults through animal therapy & recreational farm work. Our focus is to enhance therapies for youth & adults with special needs & to build relationships among youth in our community. We work closely with Sarpy/Douglas 4-H, and several other community programs. Our main program is the 4 week summer camp session which concludes at the Sarpy County Fair with our True Buddy Sheep Show. True Buddy-Luv-A-Lamb pairs special needs or medically challenged children & adults with a youth volunteer & a sheep. This gives volunteer youth the opportunity to work with special needs individuals & to participate in community service projects. In turn, it is providing occupational & physical therapy to children & adults with special needs or medical challenges through the interactions with our sheep. Physical therapy, communication, & response come naturally when our True Buddies walk a sheep. Contact Donna at [email protected] for more information or to be added to the mailing list!

v Dr. Michels in Omaha Offers Orthopedic Screenings for Shriners Hospital Dr. Michels at Omaha Orthopedic Clinic in Omaha, NE is opening some time in his schedule to work in Shriners Hospitals for Children – Twin Cities Screenings. Any child that may have an orthopedic condition is welcome to make an appointment & see Dr. Michels for a referral to Shriners Hospital free of charge. The Shriners in Nebraska are available to assist with transportation for any child that is referred to the hospital in the Twin Cities. Those arrangements can be made at the time their first visit is scheduled with Shriners Hospitals for Children –Twin Cities. You can read more about Shriners Hospitals at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/twincities For more information about Dr. Michels & his office for scheduling call 402-691-0500. His office is located at 11704 W. Center Frontage Rd. N, OMAHA, NE 68144 He is offering complimentary screening appointments for children with any bone, muscle, or joint conditions. Please say you are calling for a Shriners Hospitals for Children Screening when you make your appointment.

v Shriners Hospitals for Children – Twin Cities Shriners Hospitals for Children – Twin Cities is a non-profit healthcare organization that has been specializing in pediatric orthopedics for over 91 years. Our mission is to provide the highest quality care for all children, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. We focus on providing patients with an exceptional depth of expertise, and are proud members of the Mayo Clinic Care Network which provides our patients direct access to Mayo Clinic resources. Our family centered approach to care means your child will have the opportunity to develop a close relationship with each member of the care team. Our patients and families appreciate us. In satisfaction surveys, we rank among the top 10% of hospitals nationwide. If your child has a condition of the bones, joints, or muscles; make an appointment by calling us at (612)596-6105. Transportation services can be provided as needed. You can also check out this link, www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/locations/twincities

v New Federal Guidelines to Make Air Travel Easier for Individuals with Disabilities The U.S. Department of Transportation teamed up with The Arc and the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to create a list of guidelines for air carriers to follow when assisting travelers with developmental disabilities. The rules are not an addendum to the Air Carrier Access Act; rather, they seek to provide clarification about the existing regulations for both airlines and travelers. The guide addresses topics like what to do/know before flying; what airlines are required to provide people with disabilities; information on service dogs; and how to file a disability-related complaint, etc. The Department of Transportation said in a statement to Disability Scoop, “Recent incidents highlight the need for a guidance document focusing on developmental disabilities, to assist individuals on the autism spectrum and individuals with other developmental disabilities know their rights.” Read the full set of federal guidelines: https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/ This article was borrowed from The Mighty, in Ollie Webb Center, Inc. monthly newsletter.


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Page 14

v ASD Network State Conference – Call for Proposals! Deadline November 20!

Do you have a passion for working with individuals with autism spectrum disorders? Do you have experience using evidence based practices with indivudlas with autism? Do you have a child, sibling, or parent with an ASD and advice for others impacted by autism? Share your presentation at the ASD Network State Conference on April 7 & 8, 2016. To submit your proposal go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ASD2016 Remember the deadline is November 20!!

v Critical Rehab Technology Stakeholders and Friends: PLEASE DO ASAP We need your help to stop CMS from inappropriately cutting Medicare payments to critical accessories (components) including seating systems used with Complex Rehab Wheelchairs, on January 1. If Congressional legislation is not passed by December 31, payment cuts o f10% to more than 40% will go into effect and severally reduce or eliminate access for people with disabilities. The positive news is we now have Congressional bills in both the House of Representatives (HR-3229) and the Senate (S-2196) that will stop this. We also have a small group of Members of Congress who are championing our issue. But they need to show they have the support of their fellow Members to get this passed and that is where you come in. We need all CRT stakeholders to contact their Members this week and ask them to co-sponsor and pass HR-3229 and S-2196. You need to stress that this legislation needs to pass by year end to prevent harm to the people with disabilities who use Complex Rehab Wheelchairs. Your voices will be joined by those from 8 national disability advocacy organizations that are actively engaged in getting Congress to fix this problem. So please go to http://cqrcengage.com/access2crt?HR3229 where you will find the links email and call your Members to get their support. You’ll also find other information and documents that will help in your outreach including a package of supporting letters from 8 national disability advocacy organizations. This is an important week so please take action as soon as possible and spread the word to others to get their participation.

v iPad Grant Application is Open!! 1,045 iPad Airs will be awarded DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 7

Autism Speaks is thrilled to announce that this year, 1,045 iPad Airs will be awarded to financially disadvantaged individuals with autism. The application is now open. Eligible participants are individuals who: Have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder by a licensed professional; Reside in the United States; Have limited income and cannot afford to purchase an iPad. The timeline is below: November 2: Online application opens at 6:00 am EST. November 7: Application closes at 11:59 pm EST. November 9 – December 3: Review committee selects recipients. December 7: Recipients announced and iPads sent out. Applications must be submitted by the person with autism, an immediate family member of the person with autism, or a licensed teacher, social worker, or therapist. The Technology Grant Review Committee will review applications and select the iPad award recipients. All applications selected to receive an iPad Air will be contacted on December 7. If selected, the iPad Air will be shipped via UPS directly to the address provided with the application. Others will receive an email informing them of their status. For a link to the application contact us at [email protected] or 1-888-288-4762


Challenger)Little)League)is)an)

opportunity)for)children)who)have)

special)needs)to)play)baseball)and)

make)life)long)friendships.))

We)begin)at)age)5)with)our)minors)

division,)&)end)with)our)alumni)

division,)which)has)no)age)limit.))

The)2016)season)will)begin)in)April.))

Do)you)have)a)friend)who)you)think)

would)like)to)play)baseball?))Tell)

them)about)Challenger)&)ask)them)to)

write)your)name)down)on)the)

registration)on)the)“referred)by”)line.))

You)will)receive)50%)off)your)

registration!))

Registration)for)our)2016)season)

begins)on)January)7,)&)ends)February)

28,)2016.)))

Please)check)out)our)website)

www.challengerlittleleague.org))

)

And/or)please)feel)free)to)call)Kelly)at)

402U968U3608)

For)more)information))

We)are)located)in)Omaha,)Nebraska)

Challenger

Little League

!

We!are!a!law!firm!founded!by!the!parent!of!children!with!special!needs,!to!serve!parents!&!caregivers.!!We!provide!affordable,!caring!legal!representation!for!caregivers!throughout!Nebraska.!!!Contact'us'today'for'a'FREE'initial'consultation'with'question'about:'

• Special(Education(• Guardianship(• Special(Needs(Trusts(• SSI(or(SSDI(• Elder(Law(• Medicaid/HHS(• Transition(to(Adult(

Services(Or(Any(other(legal(concern(

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CAMP INFORMATION

Easter Seals Nebraska Weekend Overnight Camp

December 18 – 20

Eastern Nebraska 4-‐H Center, GRETNA

Cost is $500, however, Respite Waiver Units, can be accepted as payment!

Campers will relax by taking nature walks, viewing wildlife, and enjoying holiday themed activities.

For more information or to register, email Jami at [email protected] or call 402-‐930-‐4053

Documents

Merrymentor, please contact Annie Anderson at 346-5220 ext ...€¦ · Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! 402-327-2500